Cruisin' the Coast: A Thriving Automotive Extravaganza on the Mississippi Gulf Coast

The 28th edition of Cruisin' the Coast, the premier car show in America, has once again solidified its reputation as a must-attend event for automotive enthusiasts. Attracting participants from 44 U.S. states and four countries, this week-long "block party" showcased a staggering 9,961 registered vehicles, along with thousands more unregistered cars on display.

Fueling the Local Economy and Capturing the Hearts of Car Lovers

A Boon for the Mississippi Economy

The economic impact of Cruisin' the Coast is undeniable. The event's most recent study reveals that it boosts the Mississippi economy by a remarkable $36.1 million, with $33.1 million of that concentrated in the three coastal counties. Woody Bailey, the executive director of Cruisin' the Coast, emphasizes the far-reaching benefits of the event, stating, "It just does so much for so many people. From waitresses to housekeepers to business owners – it just reaches out so far and does so much for so many."

A Growing Attraction for Car Enthusiasts

Despite narrowly missing the 10,000-car mark set last year, Cruisin' the Coast continues to attract a diverse array of participants. 18% of the nearly 10,000 registrants were first-time attendees, a testament to the event's growing popularity and its ability to captivate new audiences. Bailey notes, "We're on a lot of people's bucket list. I love seeing how many first-timers we have each year and how many people love coming back. You never know what they might bring."

A Showcase of Automotive Masterpieces

Cruisin' the Coast is renowned for its world-class collection of antique and rare cars, which continue to impress and delight attendees. The event's ability to exceed expectations year after year is a testament to the passion and dedication of the motorheads and rubber lovers who keep coming back. In fact, more than 1,000 cars were already registered for Cruisin' the Coast 2025 before the conclusion of the 2024 edition, a clear indication of the event's enduring appeal.

Preparing for the 30th Anniversary Celebration

As Cruisin' the Coast approaches its 30th anniversary in two years, the planning team is already hard at work to ensure that the event continues to meet and exceed the sky-high standards set by previous editions. Bailey emphasizes the importance of carefully considering the experiences of both the swelling crowds and the local community, stating, "We plan ahead all the time looking forward to the next year and the years down the road."

A Thriving Automotive Celebration

Cruisin' the Coast has firmly established itself as a must-attend event for car enthusiasts from across the country and around the world. With its ability to boost the local economy, captivate new audiences, and showcase automotive masterpieces, this annual celebration continues to solidify its reputation as the premier car show in America.